What’s the word?

Having exploded onto the scene and establishing himself as one of the finest young strikers in world football, Paulo Dybala has earned quite a reputation at Juventus and has attracted the interest of some of Europe’s biggest sides.

Linked with Manchester United and Chelsea, the Premier League dup have eyed a move for the Argentine striker that would command a huge fee in the transfer market- but it seems the chances of such a swoop taking place will be ruled-out.

The 23-year-old has insisted he’s close to signing a new deal in Turin, following on from claims from Juventus chief Giuseppe Marotta last week- who assured fans the South American starlet would stay with the Serie A champions.

‘Dybala’s entourage is in Argentina right now. There is no reason to worry. They will arrive at the end of the month and that is the moment we will sign the contract.’

How big a blow is this?

The news won’t go down well in Manchester or West London but both sides should be able to cope, as their forward options are already well-stocked and the duo continue to be linked with reinforcements come the end of the season.

Chelsea may be more concerned than Manchester United though, as Dybala would have been the ideal replacement for an ageing Diego Costa who has also found himself in hot water this season and has endured a decline in form during 2017.